Palmer Park, Colorado Springs

If you lack the time to wander into the mountains for a hike, this city park provides a quick and surprisingly bucolic alternative. Hiking, biking and horseback riding trails fan throughout the park's foliage-thick hills and bluffs. Some portions of the trails yield little hint that downtown is just minutes away. In addition, there are plenty of baseball, softball and soccer fields, as well as volleyball courts. Picnic shelters and restrooms make it conducive for summer gatherings.